According to research recently published by the University of Michigan Health System, persons who have suffered a traumatic brain injury are at a much greater risk of suffering a stroke later in life, compared to those who have no history of brain injury.

The research was conducted on people with an average age of 49.2 years. Researchers found that persons who had suffered a traumatic brain injury earlier in life had a much higher risk of suffering an ischemic stroke, which occurs when there is a severe lack of blood flow to the brain. Ischemic strokes can leave a person with devastating and lifelong health issues, and even permanent disability. In fact, stroke is one of the major causes of long-term disability among American adults.

The outlook after a stroke is not entirely bleak, and as many as 70% of survivors of a stroke can expect to regain some degree of functional independence. However, roughly 30% of persons who suffer a stroke remain permanently disabled, and may suffer symptoms such as full or partial paralysis, language problems, cognitive difficulties, and sensory disturbances.

Most importantly, these people may be unable to return to their jobs after the stroke, often resulting in very serious financial problems for these patients as well as their families.

Social security disability benefits for a stroke are often times available to individuals, and can provide regular monthly income to cover living expenses and those for dependents. If you or a loved one has suffered a stroke, and are unable to return to work, contact our law office to discuss whether you quality for disability benefits.